Coronado, San Diego’s classic island spot, famous for being an amazing summer getaway, now transforms into a must-see winter destination. There’s no other place to take in the holiday spirit, while enjoying the wonderful sea views. It’s the perfect mix of chill beach vibes and festive Christmas fun – truly a Californian special.
Hotel del Coronado just dropped their 2025 holiday schedule, with the hugely popular Skating by the Sea ice rink making a comeback. Imagine lacing up your skates right next to the Pacific Ocean…it’s a stunning, beachfront experience.
But that’s not all! This year, they’re leveling up the festivities with a brand-new “A Holiday in Oz” theme, bringing a touch of the Emerald City’s magic to the unique setting.
Skating by the Sea at Hotel del Coronado
California’s most recognizable winter rink is set up right on the Hotel del Coronado’s Windsor Lawn. With fantastic Pacific Ocean views and just a hop and a skip from the sand, it’s a truly unforgettable skating session.
The famous rink opens on Friday, November 21st, 2025, and will be open daily until Sunday, January 4th, 2026. This season, a 90-minute skate session will cost around $40–45 for general admission, which includes renting skates. You’re encouraged to buy tickets online, prior to your visit. While the experience is a bit pricy, here’s the good news: a chunk of the money goes to Make-A-Wish San Diego. Hotel guests, military, first responders, and members get a $5 discount.
Can’t wait? Tickets are already available, so you can grab one and give yourself something to look forward to.
A brand new Wizard of Oz experience
While the ice rink is the main attraction, the hotel offers other cool seasonal stuff. Folks can snag a beachside igloo or a “Frostbite” lounge where they get their own private firepit. As usual, the hotel also plans to screen holiday movies outdoors – what more could you wish for?
Now, more magic is coming our way, with the star of the show being the “Holiday in Oz” experience. This is a nod to the Wizard of Oz author, L. Frank Baum, who actually spent time at the hotel in the early 1900s. He wrote 3 Oz books there and even designed those famous crown-shaped chandeliers!
The celebration includes a nightly “Wonder of Oz” light show, with an Oz-inspired soundtrack. You’ll also find a self-guided trail (follow the yellow brick road…) featuring 11 Christmas trees, elaborate decorations, scenery, and characters straight out of Oz.
This experience runs from November 21, 2025 through January 4, 2026. Click here to explore all the stops of this whimsical Oz trail.